A pull toward romantically framed connection with a particular person.
Back to the glossaryIdentity & diversity
Romantic orientation
A pattern of romantic attraction or the identity used to describe it. It may align with, differ from or be described independently of sexual orientation.
Identity & diversity
In brief
A way to describe romantic attraction separately when that distinction is useful.
The split-attraction model distinguishes romantic and sexual attraction and is particularly useful to some ace- and aro-spectrum people. Someone might be asexual and biromantic, or aromantic and homosexual. Other people experience attraction as inseparable or simply do not use romantic-orientation labels.
A pull toward sexual contact or interest directed at a particular person.
A label for the gender pattern or absence of romantic attraction.
The form of relationship someone wants, which is not determined by attraction alone.
The split-attraction model
Separating types of attraction can give language to experiences that do not align. Common forms include heteroromantic, homoromantic, biromantic, panromantic and aromantic.
The model is optional. It should not be imposed on people who use one integrated orientation or understand attraction differently.
Attraction is not behaviour
A person can experience romantic attraction without dating and can form a relationship without a conventional experience of attraction. Identity is not read from partner history.
Romantic attraction also does not guarantee compatibility, commitment, exclusivity or consent.
Culture and ambiguity
Ideas of romance vary across cultures, communities and individuals. Gestures such as cohabitation, affection or gifts can be romantic, platonic or practical depending on meaning.
Some people find romantic and platonic attraction hard to distinguish. Uncertainty is not pathology and labels may change.
Communication and inclusion
Ask what relationship terms and expectations mean to the people involved. Avoid assuming romantic partnership should outrank friendship, family or queerplatonic bonds.
Forms and services can ask separately about identity, partners and support needs only when relevant, with a write-in and prefer-not-to-say option.
Non-graphic examples
What the umbrella may include
- Identifying as asexual and biromantic.
- Being aromantic while experiencing sexual attraction.
- Not using the split-attraction model at all.
- Having romantic feelings without wanting a relationship.
- Clarifying whether a close bond is romantic or queerplatonic.
Reviewed 30 August 2026
Keep exploring.
This detailed field note uses the best available evidence without treating one community sample as universal. Evidence limits and UK context are stated where relevant.
Prepared by The UK Kink Guide editorial team. Read the evidence and review methodology.
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